New Commander Named for 19th Police District

In a move apparently announced via the Twitter feed of Ald. James Cappleman (46th), Commander John Kenny has been replaced by Elias “Eli” Voulgaris as the head of the 19th Police District.

The switch was otherwise circulated quietly. “I don’t know if they even let the community know,” said a spokesman for Chicago Police News Affairs, who added that personnel issues are typically conveyed by internal memo.

The appointment was news to the Hamlin Park Neighbors, who clearly have a stake in whatever policing strategy Voulgaris deploys. “I have heard nothing about a new commander at the 19th,” emailed HPN’s Colleen Leahy, in response to an RVJ query.

In last Friday’s note to constituents, Ald. Ameya Pawar (47th) welcomed Cmdr. Voulgaris, a 27-year CPD veteran with extensive experience in tactical teams, and with narcotics and gang investigations.